Multi-motion toothbrush

ABSTRACT

An electric toothbrush is disclosed. The electric toothbrush includes a body having an interior hollow region for retaining a motor, one or more batteries, and a drive mechanism. The toothbrush includes multiple bristle carriers. Each of the bristle carriers undergoes some type of movement and is driven by the motor. Various combinations of movement of the bristle carriers are described.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/027,594, filed Dec. 21, 2001 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.application Ser. No. 09/993,167 filed Nov. 6, 2001, and U.S. applicationSer. No. 10/036,613, filed on Nov. 7, 2001, the substances of which areincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of toothbrushes, andmore particularly, the invention relates to the field of electricallypowered toothbrushes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Most known electric toothbrushes utilize a single bristle carrierthat is powered or otherwise driven by an electric motor incorporated inthe toothbrush. The bristle carriers in these toothbrushes undergo awide array of motions. For example, bristle carriers undergoing rotarymotion are well known. Bristle carriers that reciprocate in a linearfashion within the plane of the brush are also known. And, bristlecarriers that reciprocate in a linear fashion perpendicular to the planeof the brush are also known. Although satisfactory in certain respects,a need still exists for an improved powered toothbrush design.

[0004] Numerous attempts have been made to improve the design,efficiency, cleaning efficacy, simplicity, and/or commercial viabilityof electric toothbrushes. One approach has been the provision ofmultiple powered bristle carriers. Most artisans have grouped multiplesets of bristles along an end of a brush and incorporated a drivemechanism for simultaneously rotating each of the bristle sets,together. Exemplary designs include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.3,242,516; 4,156,620; 4,845,795; 5,088,145; 5,020,179; 4,827,550; and4,545,087, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0005] A related strategy is to group sets of bristles on multiplerotating bristle carriers, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,140,307 and5,170,525, both of which are herein incorporated by reference. Ratherthan rotating each individual bristle set about its center, i.e. theapproach adopted in the previously noted patents, the designs describedin the '307 and '525 patents rotate multiple groups of bristle setsabout the center of a bristle carrier. Specifically, multiple groups ofbristle sets are disposed on a circular bristle carrier and that bristlecarrier, typically one of several, is rotated about its own axis.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,567, herein incorporated by reference,describes a design combining the two previously noted strategies. Arotating bristle carrier is provided along with multiple individuallyrotatable bristle sets. Although this design likely provides many of theadvantages associated with each of its predecessors, the cleaningefficacy of spinning bristle sets, alone, is somewhat limited.

[0007] Yet another design is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,603,herein incorporated by reference. The '603 patent describes an assemblyof “staggered swing” brushes. Apparently, the two bristle carriers movealong a complex path within the plane of the toothbrush.

[0008] Although dual bristle carriers that undergo various combinationsof movement have been disclosed in the prior art, there remains a needto provide an electric toothbrush with multiple bristle carriers thatprovides additional combinations of motion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention satisfies all of the previously notedobjectives and provides, in one aspect, a multi-motion toothbrushcomprising dual bristle carriers and various components as follows. Themulti-motion toothbrush in this aspect of the invention comprises anelongated body, a first movable bristle carrier secured to the body, anda second movable bristle carrier secured to the body. The toothbrushfurther comprises an electrically powered motor, a switch forselectively activating the motor, a drive mechanism engaging the motorto the two bristle carriers, and a battery. Upon activating the motor,the first bristle carrier undergoes one dimensional periodic linearmovement while the second bristle carrier undergoes two or threedimensional periodic primarily linear movement.

[0010] In another aspect, the present invention provides a multi-motiontoothbrush comprising an elongated body, a first movable bristle carriersecured to the body, and a second movable bristle carrier secured to thebody. The toothbrush also comprises an electrically powered motor, aswitch, a drive mechanism for engaging the bristle carriers, and abattery contained within the body. Upon activating the motor, the firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional periodic primarily linearmovement while the second bristle carrier undergoes two or threedimensional periodic primarily linear movement.

[0011] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides amulti-motion toothbrush comprising an elongated body, a first movablebristle carrier secured to the body, a second movable bristle carriersecured to the body, a motor disposed in the body, a switch providedalong the body, a drive mechanism engaging the bristle carriers to themotor, and a battery positioned in the hollow body. Upon activating themotor, the first bristle carrier undergoes three dimensional periodicprimarily linear movement while the second bristle carrier undergoes twoor three dimensional periodic primarily linear movement.

[0012] In a further aspect, the present invention provides amulti-motion toothbrush comprising a body, first and second bristlecarriers, a motor, a switch, a drive mechanism, and a battery. Thebristle carriers and drive mechanism are configured such that the firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional periodic curvilinear movementwhile the second bristle carrier undergoes two or three dimensionalperiodic primarily linear movement.

[0013] And, in an additional aspect, the present invention provides amulti-motion toothbrush comprising an elongated body, a first moveablebristle carrier secured to the body, and a second movable bristlecarrier secured to the body. The toothbrush further comprises anelectrically powered motor disposed in the elongated body, a switchaccessible along the body, and a drive mechanism engaging the first andsecond bristle carriers to the motor. The toothbrush also comprises oneor more batteries disposed in the hollow region of the body. Uponactivation of the motor by use of the switch, the first bristle carrierundergoes three dimensional periodic curvilinear movement, and thesecond bristle carrier undergoes two or three dimensional periodicprimarily linear movement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The present invention may take form in various components andarrangements of components, and in various techniques, methods, orprocedures and arrangements of steps. The referenced drawings are onlyfor purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments, they are notnecessarily to scale, and are not to be construed as limiting thepresent invention.

[0015] It is believed that the present invention will be betterunderstood from the following description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings in which:

[0016]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment toothbrushin accordance with the present invention illustrating various planes andtheir orientation with respect to the toothbrush;

[0017]FIG. 2 is a front elevational view illustrating the bristlecarriers of a preferred embodiment toothbrush in accordance with thepresent invention;

[0018]FIG. 2a is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0019]FIG. 2b is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0020]FIG. 2c is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2a illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0021]FIG. 2d is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0022]FIG. 2e is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0023]FIG. 2f is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0024]FIG. 2g is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0025]FIG. 2h is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0026]FIG. 2i is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 2 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0027]FIG. 3 is a front elevational view illustrating the bristlecarriers of a preferred embodiment toothbrush in accordance with thepresent invention;

[0028]FIG. 3a is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0029]FIG. 3b is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0030]FIG. 3c is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0031]FIG. 3d is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0032]FIG. 3e is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0033]FIG. 3f is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0034]FIG. 3g is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0035]FIG. 3h is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 3 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0036]FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of a preferred embodimenttoothbrush in accordance with the present invention;

[0037]FIG. 4a is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 4 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0038]FIG. 4b is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 4 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0039]FIG. 4c is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 4 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0040]FIG. 4d is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 4 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0041]FIG. 4e is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 4 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0042]FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of a preferred embodimenttoothbrush in accordance with the present invention;

[0043]FIG. 5a is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0044]FIG. 5b is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0045]FIG. 5c is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0046]FIG. 5d is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0047]FIG. 5e is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0048]FIG. 5f is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0049]FIG. 5g is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 5 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0050]FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of a preferred embodimenttoothbrush in accordance with the present invention;

[0051]FIG. 6a is a detail of a first bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 6 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0052]FIG. 6b is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 6 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0053]FIG. 6c is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 6 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0054]FIG. 6d is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 6 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0055]FIG. 6e is a detail of a second bristle carrier of the toothbrushshown in FIG. 6 illustrating the bristle carrier undergoing a certaintype of motion;

[0056]FIG. 7A is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment toothbrushin accordance with the present invention, illustrating a certainmechanism in a first position for imparting motion to a bristle carrier;

[0057]FIG. 7B is a schematic view of the preferred embodiment toothbrushshown in FIG. 7A, illustrating the mechanism in a different position forimparting motion to the bristle carrier;

[0058]FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 7C-7Cin FIG. 7A;

[0059]FIG. 7D is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 7D-7Din FIG. 7B;

[0060]FIG. 8A is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment toothbrushin accordance with the present invention, illustrating another mechanismfor imparting motion to a bristle carrier;

[0061]FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 8B-8Bin FIG. 8A;

[0062]FIG. 9A is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment toothbrushin accordance with the present invention, illustrating another mechanismfor imparting motion to a bristle carrier; and

[0063]FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 9B-9Bin FIG. 9A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0064] As will be appreciated, the present invention is directed toelectric toothbrushes, including electric toothbrushes havingreplaceable brush head ends, replaceable bristle carriers and electrictoothbrushes having multiple bristle carriers. In particular, thepresent invention is directed to an electric toothbrush with two bristlecarriers, each of which is driven by an electric motor incorporatedwithin the toothbrush body.

[0065] Specifically, the present invention can be used in conjunctionwith electric toothbrushes, brush heads, and bristle carriers thatinclude shafts that rotate, oscillate, or reciprocate (as well ascombinations thereof to impart motion to the first and second bristlecarriers. In addition, the present invention can be used in combinationwith electric toothbrushes, brush heads, and bristle carriers where theshaft is operatively connected to both the first and second bristlecarriers or only one of the bristle carriers. In the latter instance,the bristle carriers are themselves interconnected so that a motion isimparted to the bristle carrier that is not directly coupled to theshaft.

[0066] Before describing the various preferred embodiment toothbrushesand associated drive mechanisms, it is instructive to define the varioustypes of motions referenced herein. As used herein, the term “angularmotion” refers to any angular displacement. “Linear motion” is movementalong a straight or substantially straight, line or direction.“Primarily linear motion” is described below. “Curvilinear motion” ismovement that is neither completely linear nor completely angular but isa combination of the two (e.g., curvilinear). These motions can beconstant or periodic. Constant motion refers to motion that does notchange direction or path (i.e., is unidirectional). Periodic motionrefers to motion that reverses direction or path. Constant angularmotion (i.e., motion that extends through 360 degrees or more) that issubstantially in the form of a circle is referred to as rotary motion.Periodic angular motion is motion that extends through less than 360degrees and is referred to as oscillating motion. Curvilinear motionscan also be either constant (i.e., unidirectional) or periodic (i.e.,reverses direction). Periodic linear motion is referred to as“reciprocation”.

[0067] The above-described motions can also occur along one or more axesof a bristle carrier. Accordingly, motion is described herein as beingeither one, two, or three dimensional motion depending upon the numberof axial coordinates required to describe the position of a bristlecarrier during its movement. The axes, X, Y, and Z, are shown in FIG. 1.One dimensional motion is motion that can be described by a singlecoordinate (e.g., X, Y, or Z coordinates). Typically, only linear motioncan be one dimensional. For example, periodic linear motionsubstantially along only the Y axis is one dimensional motion (referredto herein as a “pulsing motion”). Two dimensional motion is movement bya bristle carrier that requires two coordinates (e.g., X and Ycoordinates) to describe the path of travel of the bristle carrier.Angular motion that occurs in a single plane is two dimensional motion.Three dimensional motion is movement by a bristle carrier that requiresthree coordinates (e.g., X, Y, and Z coordinates) to describe the pathof travel of the bristle carrier. An example of three dimensional motionis movement by a bristle carrier in the path of a helix.

[0068]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment toothbrush2 in accordance with the present invention. The toothbrush 2 comprisesan elongated body 10 having a handle 30, a head 50, and a neck 40extending between the handle 30 and the head 50. A switch 20 is providedor made accessible along the outer region of the body 10. As will beappreciated, the switch 20 actuates an electrical motor contained withinthe body 10 of toothbrush 2. The motor (not shown) and a drive mechanismas described herein (not shown) provide a powered drive for one or morebristle carriers disposed near a distal end of the toothbrush.Specifically, the toothbrush 2 further includes a first bristle carrier60 and a second bristle carrier 70 located adjacent a distal-most end52. As described in greater detail herein, upon activation of the drivemechanism, the first and second bristle carriers undergo a particularcombination of motions. The motions are best described in terms of theaxes X, Y, and Z and the planes which contain these axes.

[0069] The X axis is generally referred to herein as the longitudinalaxis and generally extends along a longitudinal or lengthwise dimension(as seen from the top planar view of the toothbrush) of the toothbrushhead or the bristle carrier. The longitudinal axis of the toothbrushhead or bristle carrier may coincide with the longitudinal axes of thetoothbrush neck and/or handle, although it need not do so as for examplewhere the toothbrush head is angled with respect to either thetoothbrush neck or handle. For example, a longitudinal axis is an axispassing through the longest dimension of the toothbrush head. The Y axisis transverse to the X axis and generally bisects the toothbrush headinto its left and right halves. The Z axis is orthogonal orperpendicular to the X and Y axes.

[0070] Plane X contains the X axis and is generally referred to hereinas the plane of the toothbrush or the plane of the toothbrush head. Thisplane generally extends along the longitudinal dimension of thetoothbrush. The Y plane contains the Y axis and extends through thetoothbrush and is perpendicular to the X plane. The Y plane eitherbisects the toothbrush or is parallel to a plane that does. The Z planeis perpendicular to both the X plane and the Y plane.

[0071] Furthermore, it is useful to address the terminology used indescribing the preferred embodiment toothbrushes, bristle carriers, andthe various drive mechanisms. As used herein, the term “forward” refersto the direction from the handle to the head while the term “rearward”refers to the direction from the head to the handle. A longitudinaldirection is a direction that generally corresponds to a longitudinal orX axis but which may not lie in the same plane as the axis. For example,the longitudinal axes of a shaft and a bristle carrier may not extend inthe same plane but generally extend in the same direction from a topplanar view. Similarly, a neck and head that are angled with respect toeach other may not have longitudinal axes that extend in the same plane,but do have axes which extend in the same general longitudinal directionfrom a top planar view. Many of the preferred embodiment electrictoothbrushes typically have an elongated head with a longitudinal axispassing through the longest dimension thereof. This axis typicallyextends in the same general direction as the longitudinal axes of thetoothbrush neck and/or shaft. This axis is generally referred to as thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush. By the phrase “same generaldirection,” some angular deviation is contemplated between the axes.Various references are also made herein to the “plane of thetoothbrush.” As will be understood, this is generally the plane withinwhich extends the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush head.

[0072] And, as described herein, the first bristle carrier is thebristle carrier that is located at the distal-most end of thetoothbrush. The second bristle carrier is the next bristle carrierpositioned alongside or proximate to the first bristle carrier andrearward therefrom. A third bristle carrier is proximate the secondbristle carrier and is positioned rearward of the second bristlecarrier. A fourth bristle carrier is rearward of the third and so on.

[0073] Generally, the preferred embodiment toothbrushes according to thepresent invention comprise an elongated hollow body that retains anelectrically powered motor and drive mechanism that is used to drive twoor more moveable bristle carriers. The elongated hollow body alsoincludes an interior chamber for containing one or more batteries forpowering the motor. And, one or more switches are provided along theouter region of the body for activating the motor and drive mechanism.As will be appreciated, a removable end cap is provided to enclose theinterior chamber and provide a seal against external agents for thecomponents inside the toothbrush body. As described in detail herein,the preferred embodiment toothbrushes comprise two or more movablebristle carriers. Each of the bristle carriers undergoes particulartypes of motion and the resulting combinations of movements provideunique cleaning efficacy.

[0074] As noted, the preferred embodiment electric toothbrushes comprisea plurality of bristle carriers that are driven by an electric motor anddrive mechanism incorporated in the toothbrush. Preferably, thesetoothbrushes utilize two bristle carriers, each undergoing motiondifferent than the motion of the other bristle carrier. Specifically,there are numerous categories of combinations of movements of the twobristle carriers which are encompassed by the present invention. Each ofthese categories involves various specific types of combinations ofmovement as follows.

[0075] A first category of combinations of movements of the two bristlecarriers is that in which the first or distal-most bristle carrier movesin a linear fashion, and the second bristle carrier moves in a primarilylinear fashion. Specifically, this category involves motion in which thefirst bristle carrier undergoes one dimensional periodic, i.e. repeated,linear movement in combination with two or three dimensional periodicprimarily linear movement by the second bristle carrier. It will beappreciated that the reference to “primarily linear” refers to movementthat is in two or three dimensions and not entirely linear in nature.Movement that is primarily linear is movement that is best characterizedas non-linear movement, however movement that is substantially along asingle axis, line or direction. That is, primarily linear motion ismovement that is generally along a single line or direction. This motionmay include deviation from the line or direction of movement, howeversuch motion is substantially linear.

[0076] This combination of movements may be further defined as involvingone of the following specific types of movement by the first bristlecarrier and one of the following specific types of movement by thesecond bristle carrier.

[0077] The first bristle carrier may reciprocate along a single axis orline in the X plane of the toothbrush head or a plane that is generallyparallel to the plane of the toothbrush head, and in a directionparallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush head. Or, the firstbristle carrier may reciprocate along a single axis or line in the Xplane of the toothbrush head or a plane generally parallel to the planeof the toothbrush head, and in a direction perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush head (and so the first bristlecarrier moves in a “side-to-side” fashion). Alternately, the firstbristle carrier may reciprocate along a single axis in the X plane ofthe toothbrush head or a plane generally parallel to the X plane of thetoothbrush head, and in a direction other than parallel or perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush head. That is, the firstbristle carrier may reciprocate along an axis that extends at an acuteangle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush head.Instead, the first bristle carrier may reciprocate along a single axisin a plane perpendicular to the X plane of the toothbrush head (and so,moving in an “up and down” or “pulsing” fashion). In other words, thefirst bristle carrier may move in a direction aligned with the Y axis ofthe toothbrush head. Yet another motion is that in which the firstbristle carrier may reciprocate along a single axis in a plane otherthan one that is parallel or perpendicular to the X plane of thetoothbrush head. All of these motions of the first bristle carrier areone dimensional or linear.

[0078] The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear within the X plane of the toothbrush head or a planegenerally parallel to the X plane of the toothbrush head. Or, the secondbristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarily linear andin a plane that is perpendicular to the X plane of the toothbrush head(and so, the second bristle carrier would resemble a “pulsing” typemotion). Or, the second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion thatis primarily linear in a plane other than one that is parallel orperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. Alternatively, thesecond bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear and non-planar (hence, the designation that motion of the secondbristle carrier is in three dimensions). This motion of the secondbristle carrier, although non-planar, can be characterized by primarilyextending within a plane that is: (i) within the plane of the toothbrushhead or a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of thetoothbrush head; (ii) perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head;or (iii) different than either the plane of the toothbrush head or aplane perpendicular thereto.

[0079] It will be understood that in this category of movementcombinations, any of the previously described movements of the firstbristle carrier may be utilized in conjunction with any of thepreviously described movements of the second bristle carrier.

[0080]FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment toothbrush A having apair of bristle carriers as previously described. FIGS. 2a to 2 iillustrate the various combinations of movements of these bristlecarriers as previously described. Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates apreferred embodiment toothbrush A including a body 110 having a neck 140and a head 150. The toothbrush A further includes a first bristlecarrier 160 and a second bristle carrier 170 disposed proximate to adistal-most end 152 of the head 150. The first bristle carrier 160 maybe configured to move in a variety of fashions as previously noted.Specifically, referring to FIGS. 2a to 2 e these motions are as follows.

[0081]FIG. 2a illustrates that the first bristle carrier 160 mayreciprocate along a single axis or line in the plane of the toothbrushhead such as plane X as shown in FIG. 1, or a plane that is generallyparallel to the plane of the toothbrush head, and in a directionparallel to the longitudinal axis L of the toothbrush. FIG. 2billustrates another motion in which the first bristle carrier 160reciprocates along a single axis or line in the plane of the toothbrushhead or a plane generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrush head,and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thetoothbrush. FIG. 2b illustrates the first bristle carrier 160 moving ina “side-to-side” fashion. FIG. 2c illustrates the first bristle carrier160 reciprocating along a single axis in the plane of the toothbrushhead or a plane generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrush head,and in a direction other than parallel or perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush. That is, FIG. 2c illustrates thefirst bristle carrier 160 reciprocating along an axis that extends at anacute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.FIG. 2d illustrates the first bristle carrier 160 reciprocating along asingle axis in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrushhead, such as plane Y as shown in FIG. 1, and generally perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, and so moving in an up and downor pulsing fashion. FIG. 2e illustrates the first bristle carrier 160moving or reciprocating along a single axis in a plane other than onethat is parallel or perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.All of these motions of the first bristle carrier 160 are onedimensional or linear.

[0082]FIGS. 2f to 2 i illustrate various motions that the second bristlecarrier 170 may undergo. FIG. 2f illustrates the second bristle carrier170 undergoing motion that is primarily linear and so, not onedimensional, within the plane of the toothbrush head or a planegenerally parallel to the plane of the toothbrush head. FIG. 2gillustrates the second bristle carrier 170 undergoing repeated motionthat is primarily linear and in a plane that is perpendicular to theplane of the toothbrush head, such as plane Y shown in FIG. 1. And so,the second bristle carrier 170 is moving in a motion that resembles apulsing type motion. FIG. 2h illustrates the second bristle carrier 170undergoing repeated motion that is primarily linear in a plane otherthan one that is parallel or perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head. FIG. 2i illustrates the second bristle carrier 170undergoing repeated motion that is primarily linear, however,non-planar, and hence three dimensional.

[0083] The preferred embodiment toothbrush A may be configured such thatthe first bristle carrier 160 may undergo any of the motions depicted inFIGS. 2a to 2 e, in combination with the second bristle carrier 170undergoing any of the motions depicted in FIGS. 2f to 2 i.

[0084] Another category of combinations of movements of the two bristlecarriers is that in which the first bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional periodic movement that is primarily linear in combinationwith two or three dimensional periodic movement that is also primarilylinear by the second bristle carrier.

[0085] The first bristle carrier may undergo any type of repeated motionthat is primarily linear and within the plane of the toothbrush head orwithin a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrushhead. Or, the first bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear and within a plane that is perpendicular to the planeof the toothbrush head (and so, approach a “pulsing” type motion). Or,the first bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear in a plane other than one that is parallel or perpendicular tothe plane of the toothbrush head. Instead, the first bristle carrier mayundergo repeated motion that is primarily linear and non-planar. Thismotion of the first bristle carrier, although non-planar and thus threedimensional, can be characterized by primarily extending within a planethat is (i) within the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane generallyparallel thereto; (ii) perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrushhead; or (iii) different than either the plane of the toothbrush head ora plane perpendicular thereto.

[0086] The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear within the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane thatis generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrush head. Or, thesecond bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear in a plane that is perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrushhead (and so, approach a “pulsing” type motion). Alternately, the secondbristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarily linear ina plane other than one that is parallel or perpendicular to the plane ofthe toothbrush head. Or, the second bristle carrier may undergo repeatedmotion that is primarily linear and non-planar. This motion of thesecond bristle carrier, although non-planar and thus three dimensional,can be characterized by primarily extending within a plane that is (i)within the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto;(ii) perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head; or (iii)different than either the plane of the toothbrush head or a planeperpendicular thereto.

[0087] Again, it will be appreciated that in this category of movementcombinations, any of the movements of the first bristle carrier may beutilized in combination with any of the movements of the second bristlecarrier.

[0088]FIG. 3 is a front elevational view illustrating another preferredembodiment toothbrush in accordance with the present invention andproviding the previously noted combinations of bristle carrier motions.FIG. 3 illustrates toothbrush B having a body 210 with a neck 240 and ahead 250. Disposed on the head 250 are a first bristle carrier 260 and asecond bristle carrier 270. As will be noted, the first bristle carrier260 is proximate the distal-most end 252 of the head 250. The firstbristle carrier 260 and second bristle carrier 270 of the preferredembodiment toothbrush B are configured to undergo various types ofspecific motion as follows.

[0089]FIGS. 3a to 3 d illustrate various types of motion that the firstbristle carrier 260 may undergo. FIG. 3a illustrates the first bristlecarrier 260 undergoing motion that is primarily linear and within theplane of the toothbrush head or within a plane that is generallyparallel to the plane of the toothbrush head. FIG. 3b illustrates thefirst bristle carrier 260 undergoing repeated motion that is primarilylinear and within a plane that is perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head, such as plane Y depicted in FIG. 1. And so, FIG. 3billustrates the pulsing type motion described herein. FIG. 3cillustrates another motion by the first bristle carrier 260 in which itsmotion is primarily linear and in a plane other than one that isparallel or perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. And, FIG.3d illustrates another motion of the first bristle carrier 260 in whichit undergoes repeated motion that is primarily linear and non-planar,and thus three dimensional.

[0090]FIGS. 3e to 3 h illustrate additional types of motion that thesecond bristle carrier 270 of the preferred embodiment toothbrush B mayundergo. Specifically, FIG. 3e illustrates repeated motion that thesecond bristle carrier 270 may undergo that is primarily linear withinthe plane of the toothbrush head or a plane that is generally parallelto the plane of the toothbrush head. FIG. 3f illustrates the secondbristle carrier undergoing repeated motion that is primarily linear in aplane that is perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head, such asplane Y shown in FIG. 1, and so approaching a pulsing type motion. FIG.3g illustrates the second bristle carrier 270 undergoing repeated motionthat is primarily linear in a plane other than one that is parallel orperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. FIG. 3h illustratesthe second bristle carrier 270 undergoing repeated motion that isprimarily linear and non-planar. This motion of the bristle carrier 270is three dimensional.

[0091] The preferred embodiment toothbrush B may be configured such thatthe first bristle carrier 260 may undergo any of the motions depicted inFIGS. 3a to 3 e, in combination with the second bristle carrier 270undergoing any of the motions depicted in FIGS. 3e to 3 h.

[0092] Yet another category of combination of movements of the twobristle carriers is that in which the first bristle carrier undergoesthree dimensional periodic primarily linear movement in combination withtwo or three dimensional periodic primarily linear movement by thesecond bristle carrier.

[0093] The first bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear and non-planar. The motion of the first bristlecarrier, although non-planar and thus three dimensional, can becharacterized by primarily extending in a plane that is (i) within theplane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto; (ii)perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head; or (iii) differentthan either the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicular tothe plane of the toothbrush head.

[0094] The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear within the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane thatis generally parallel thereto. Or, the second bristle carrier mayundergo repeated motion that is primarily linear in a plane that isperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head (and so, approach a“pulsing” type motion). Or, the second bristle carrier may undergorepeated motion that is primarily linear in a plane other than one thatis parallel or perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. Or,the second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear and non-planar. This motion of the second bristle carrier,although non-planar and therefore three dimensional, can becharacterized by primarily extending within a plane that is (i) withinthe plane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto; (ii)perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head; or (iii) differentthan either the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicularthereto.

[0095] Any of the movements of the first bristle carrier may be utilizedin combination with any of the movements of the second bristle carrier.

[0096]FIG. 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment toothbrush C inaccordance with the present invention and providing the previously notedcombinations of bristle carrier motions. Toothbrush C comprises a body310 having a neck 340 and a head 350. Disposed generally on the head 350are a first bristle carrier 360 and a second bristle carrier 370. Itwill be noted that the first bristle carrier 360 is proximate adistal-most end 352 of the head 350. The first bristle carrier 360 andthe second bristle carrier 370 may undergo a variety of motions andcombinations of motions as follows.

[0097]FIG. 4a illustrates the first bristle carrier 360 undergoingrepeated motion that is primarily linear and non-planar. Restated, thefirst bristle carrier 360 undergoes a primarily linear and threedimensional motion.

[0098]FIGS. 4b to 4 e illustrate motions of the second bristle carrier370. FIG. 4b illustrates the second bristle carrier 370 undergoingrepeated motion that is primarily linear and within the plane of thetoothbrush head or within a plane that is generally parallel thereto.FIG. 4c illustrates the second bristle carrier 370 undergoing repeatedmotion that is primarily linear and in a plane that is perpendicular tothe plane of the toothbrush head, such as plane Y shown in FIG. 1. FIG.4c illustrates that motion resembling a pulsing type motion. FIG. 4dillustrates the second bristle carrier 370 undergoing repeated motionthat is primarily linear in a plane other than one that is parallel orperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head C. FIG. 4e illustratesthe second bristle carrier 370 undergoing repeated motion that isprimarily linear and non-planar, and thus, motion that is threedimensional.

[0099] The preferred embodiment toothbrush C may be configured such thatthe first bristle carrier 360 may undergo motion such as depicted inFIG. 4A in combination with the second bristle carrier 370 undergoingany of the motions depicted in FIGS. 4b to 4 e.

[0100] Additionally, another category of combinations of movementsinvolves curvilinear movement by the first bristle carrier incombination with movement in two or three dimensions by the secondbristle carrier. Specifically, in this category of movements, the firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional periodic curvilinear movementin combination with two or three dimensional periodic primarily linearmovement by the second bristle carrier.

[0101] The first bristle carrier may undergo repeated curvilinear motionwithin the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel to the planeof the toothbrush head. Or, the first bristle carrier may undergorepeated curvilinear motion within a plane perpendicular to the plane ofthe toothbrush head. Or, the first bristle carrier may undergo repeatedcurvilinear motion within a plane other than the plane of the toothbrushhead or one perpendicular thereto.

[0102] The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear within the plane of the toothbrush head or a planeparallel thereto. Or the second bristle carrier may undergo repeatedmotion that is primarily linear in a plane that is perpendicular to theplane of the toothbrush head (and so, approach a “pulsing” type motion).Or, the second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear in a plane other than one that is parallel orperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. Or the second bristlecarrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarily linear andnon-planar. The motion of the second bristle carrier, althoughnon-planar and therefore three dimensional, can be characterized byprimarily extending within a plane that is (i) within the plane of thetoothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto; (ii) perpendicular to theplane of the toothbrush head; or (iii) different than either the planeof the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicular thereto.

[0103] As previously noted, any and all combinations of movementsbetween the first bristle carrier and second bristle carrier arecontemplated.

[0104]FIG. 5 illustrates another preferred embodiment toothbrush D inaccordance with the present invention and providing the previously notedcombinations of bristle carrier motions. Toothbrush D comprises a body410 having a neck 440 and a head 450. Disposed on the head 450 is afirst bristle carrier 460 and a second bristle carrier 470. The firstbristle carrier 460 is provided proximate to the distal-most end 452 ofthe toothbrush D. The first bristle carrier 460 and the second bristlecarrier 470 of the toothbrush D may undergo a variety of motions asfollows.

[0105]FIGS. 5a to 5 c illustrate specific motions that the first bristlecarrier 460 may undergo. Specifically, FIG. 5a illustrates the firstbristle carrier 460 undergoing repeated curvilinear motion within theplane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel to the plane of thetoothbrush head. FIG. 5b illustrates the first bristle carrier 460undergoing repeated curvilinear motion within a plane perpendicular tothe plane of the toothbrush head, such as within plane Y illustrated inFIG. 1. FIG. 5c illustrates the first bristle carrier 460 undergoingrepeated curvilinear motion within a plane other than the plane of thetoothbrush head or one perpendicular thereto.

[0106]FIGS. 5d to 5 g illustrate various motions that the second bristlecarrier 470 may undergo. Specifically, FIG. 5d illustrates the secondbristle carrier 470 undergoing repeated motion that is primarily linearwithin the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto.FIG. 5e illustrates the second bristle carrier 470 undergoing repeatedmotion that is primarily linear in a plane that is perpendicular to theplane of the toothbrush head, such as within the plane Y illustrated inFIG. 1. FIG. 5e illustrates the motion of the second bristle carrier 470approaching or resembling a pulsing type motion as described herein.FIG. 5f illustrates the second bristle carrier 470 undergoing repeatedmotion that is primarily linear in a plane other than one that isparallel or perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. FIG. 5gillustrates the second bristle carrier 470 undergoing three dimensionalmotion.

[0107] The preferred embodiment toothbrush D may be configured such thatthe first bristle carrier 460 undergoes motion such as shown in any ofFIGS. 5a to 5 c in combination with the second bristle carrier 470undergoing motion such as depicted in any of FIGS. 5d to 5 g.

[0108] Another category of combination of movements of the two bristlecarriers is that in which the first bristle carrier undergoes threedimensional periodic curvilinear movement in combination with two orthree dimensional periodic primarily linear movement by the secondbristle carrier.

[0109] The first bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that iscurvilinear in nature and non-planar. The motion of the first bristlecarrier, although non-planar and thus three dimensional, may becharacterized by primarily extending within a plane that is (i) withinthe plane of the toothbrush head or a plane parallel thereto; (ii)perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head; or (iii) differentthan either the plane of the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicularthereto.

[0110] The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that isprimarily linear and within the plane of the toothbrush head or within aplane that is generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrush head.The second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear in a plane that is perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrushhead (and so, the second bristle carrier would approach a “pulsing” typemotion). Or, the second bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion thatis primarily linear in a plane other than one that is parallel orperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. Alternately, thesecond bristle carrier may undergo repeated motion that is primarilylinear and non-planar (hence, the designation that motion of the secondbristle carrier is in three dimensions). This motion of the secondbristle carrier, although non-planar, can be characterized by primarilyextending within a plane that is (i) within the plane of the toothbrushhead or a plane parallel thereto; (ii) perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head; or (iii) different than either the plane of thetoothbrush head or a plane perpendicular thereto.

[0111] Again, any and all combinations of movements between the firstbristle carrier and the second bristle carrier are contemplated.

[0112]FIG. 6 illustrates a front elevational view of the head portion ofa preferred embodiment toothbrush E in accordance with the presentinvention and providing the previously noted combinations of bristlecarrier motions. Toothbrush E comprises a body 510 having a neck 540 anda head 550. Disposed on the head 550 is a first bristle carrier 560 anda second bristle carrier 570. The first bristle carrier 560 ispositioned or provided proximate the distal-most end 552 of the head550. As explained herein, the first bristle carrier 560 and the secondbristle carrier 570 may undergo a variety of motions as follows.

[0113]FIG. 6a illustrates the first bristle carrier 560 undergoingrepeated motion that is curvilinear in nature and non-planar. That is,the motion of the first bristle carrier 560 is three dimensional. FIG.6b illustrates the second bristle carrier 570 undergoing repeated motionthat is primarily linear and within the plane of the toothbrush head orwithin a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of the toothbrushhead. FIG. 6c illustrates the second bristle carrier 570 undergoingrepeated motion that is primarily linear in a plane that isperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head, such as plane Y shownin FIG. 1. And so, FIG. 6c illustrates the second bristle carrier 570undergoing motion that resembles a pulsing type motion as describedherein. FIG. 6d illustrates the second bristle carrier 570 undergoingrepeated motion that is primarily linear in a plane other than one thatis parallel or perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head. And,FIG. 6 illustrates the second bristle carrier 570 undergoing threedimensional motion.

[0114] The preferred embodiment toothbrush E may be configured such thatthe first bristle carrier 560 undergoes motion such as shown in FIG. 6ain combination with the second bristle carrier 570 undergoing any of thetypes of motion shown in FIGS. 6b to 6 e.

[0115] Specifically, the preferred structure and arrangement of themoveable and powered bristle carriers is as follows. A second bristlecarrier is disposed adjacent the first bristle carrier. While it isdesirable to locate the second bristle carrier directly adjacent thefirst bristle carrier, it is contemplated that a gap may be providedbetween the first and second bristle carriers. In addition, the gapbetween the first and second bristle carriers might be filled withstationary bristles which are embedded in a fixed or stationary thirdbristle carrier (not shown) which forms part of the toothbrush end.Further, while the first bristle carrier has been described as adjacentthe distal end of the toothbrush, it is contemplated that the secondbristle carrier might be disposed adjacent the distal end of thetoothbrush and driven in the same manner as described herein.

[0116] While the embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated for simplicity with bristles which extend in a directionsubstantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the surface ofthe bristle carriers, it is contemplated that the bristles might bearranged differently to complement or further enhance the motions of thefirst and/or second bristle carriers. That is, some or all of thebristles might extend in a direction which forms an acute angle to asurface of the bristle carrier and extend in a direction toward or awayfrom the handle. In another embodiment, some of the bristles mightextend outwardly away from the head, in another direction, again formingan acute angle with respect to the surface of the bristle carrier.Massaging bristles or bristles of varying height might also be used,such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. Des. 330,286, Des. 434,563, thesubstances of which are incorporated herein by reference. Otherpreferred bristle arrangements suitable for use include thosearrangements described in whole or part in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,006,394;4,081,876; 5,046,213; 5,335,389; 5,392,483; 5,446,940; 4,894,880; andinternational publication no. WO 99/23910; the substances of which areincorporated herein by reference.

[0117] A variety of drive mechanisms may be utilized in the preferredembodiment toothbrushes described herein. As noted, drive mechanismsthat provide a powered rotating output or a reciprocating or oscillatingoutput are preferred. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,617,603; 5,850,603;5,974,615; 6,032,313; 5,504,959; 5,524,312; 5,625,916; 5,732,432;5,070,567; 5,170,525; 5,416,942; 3,588,936; 5,867,856; and 4,397,055,the substances of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloseother motor and rotating or oscillating shaft arrangements that might besuitable. Furthermore, the drive mechanisms disclosed in U.S. Ser. No.10/027,594, filed Dec. 21, 2001; and U.S. Ser. No. 09/993,167, filedNov. 6, 2001, both of which are incorporated herein by reference, may beused. Additionally, any or all of the aspects of U.S. Pat. Nos.5,617,601 and 5,435,032, both of which are hereby incorporated herein,may be utilized in the toothbrushes described herein.

[0118] A preferred mechanism for imparting a pulsing type motion, orreferring to FIG. 1, a motion in the Y plane, is illustrated in FIGS.7A-7D. This mechanism converts a rotary motion, such as from an outputof an electric motor, to a reciprocating linear or substantially linearmotion in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a partial view of a preferred embodimenttoothbrush F is shown. These figures illustrate a first bristle carrier660 and a second bristle carrier 670 disposed along a head 650 proximatea neck 640. Extending within the neck 640 is a portion of a drivemechanism including a rotating shaft 602. It will be appreciated thatthe shaft 602 is powered or driven by an electric motor (not shown)disposed in the body or handle of the toothbrush. The drive mechanismalso includes a crank portion 606 that is offset from the longitudinalaxis of the shaft 602. The shaft 602 is rotatably supported at thedistal end of the toothbrush F by a support 604.

[0119] As will be appreciated, either or both of the first or secondbristle carriers 660 and 670 may be driven by the mechanism illustratedin FIGS. 7A-7D. However, for purposes of the present discussion, thesefigures depict only the first bristle carrier 660 being driven. Providedalong the base or underside of the bristle carrier 660 is a plate 610.The plate 610 is connected to the crank portion 606 by a linkage member608. FIG. 7A illustrates the mechanism in one position in which thefirst bristle carrier 660 is urged outward and generally away from thehead 650, and FIG. 7B illustrates another position in which the bristlecarrier 660 is drawn towards or partially retracted into the head 650.FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate cross-sectional views detailing the mechanismand its positions in relation to the bristle carrier 660. FIG. 7C is across-sectional view of the head 650 taken along line 7C-7C in FIG. 7A.FIG. 7C illustrates the orientation of the crank portion 606 and base610 when the first bristle carrier 660 is extended outward from the head650 of the toothbrush F. FIG. 7D is also a cross-sectional view however,taken along the line 7D-7D in FIG. 7B. FIG. 7D illustrates theorientation of the crank portion 606 and base 610 when the bristlecarrier 660 is drawn towards the head 650. It may be desirable toprovide a guide member 648 that extends alongside the plate 610 toprovide a channel within which the plate 610 and bristle carrier 660 mayreciprocate as shaft 602 rotates.

[0120] Another preferred mechanism for imparting motion to one or morebristle carriers is described in provisional application Serial No.60/361,625, filed Mar. 4, 2002, herein incorporated by reference. Thatmechanism imparts a “side-to-side” motion to a bristle carrier.Referring to FIG. 1, such motion causes either of both of the bristlecarriers 60 and 70 to reciprocate within the plane of the toothbrushhead, e.g. within the X plane, or within a plane parallel thereto, andin a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thetoothbrush.

[0121] Specifically, a representative drive mechanism to achieve a“side-to-side” motion is as follows. Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, apreferred embodiment toothbrush G is illustrated. A first bristlecarrier 760 is movably mounted in slots 702 in a toothbristle carrier750 and driven in a reciprocating or translating, transverse motionwithin the slots 702 by a cam 755 included on a driving shaft 745. Thecam 755 can comprise an appropriately shaped bead placed over or moldedand fixedly secured to the shaft 745. For example, the bead is shaped asan eccentric cam. Alternatively, the cam profile may utilize one or morerectilinear, curvilinear or other types of bends. A first cam follower734 and a second cam follower 736 each extend from a bottom surface ofthe first bristle carrier 760. The cam followers are, for example,offset from the longitudinal axis L of the first bristle carrier andstraddle or capture the cam 755. As the motor (not shown) rotates theshaft 745 in accordance with arrow C, the cam 755 contacts a surface 744of the first cam follower 734 and drives the first cam follower 734, andtherefore, the first bristle carrier 760 away from a first side 751 andtoward a second side 753 of the toothbristle carrier 750 along atransverse axis 782 of the first bristle carrier 760. As the shaft 745continues to rotate, the cam 755 becomes disengaged with the first camfollower 734. The cam 755 then contacts a surface 746 of the second camfollower 736 and drives the second cam follower 736, and therefore, thefirst bristle carrier 760 toward the first side 751 and away from thesecond side 753 of the toothbristle carrier 750. A clearance 765 isprovided between the first and second bristle carriers 760, 770 toaccommodate the spacing requirements of this motion. As this back andforth or “side-to-side” motion is repeated (as the shaft 745 continuesto rotate), a sweeping motion is provided that provides enhancedcleaning action to the teeth in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 8B.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, in another version of thetoothbrush G, referred to herein as toothbrush H, the second bristlecarrier 870 is movably mounted in slots 802 in the toothbristle carrier850 and separately driven in a reciprocating or translating, transversemotion within the slots 802 by a cam 806 included on a driving shaft808. The cam 806 can comprise an appropriately shaped bead placed overor molded and fixedly secured to the shaft 808 as in the previouslydescribed embodiment for toothbrush G. First 810 and second 812 camfollowers depend from a bottom surface of the second bristle carrier870. The cam followers are, for example, offset from the longitudinalaxis L of the second bristle carrier 870 and straddle or capture the cam806. As the motor (not shown) rotates the shaft 808, the cam 806 comesinto contact with a surface 814 of the first cam follower 810 and drivesthe first cam follower 810, and therefore, the second bristle carrier870 away from a first side 820 and toward a second side 826 along anaxis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. As the shaft 808continues to rotate, the cam 806 becomes disengaged with the first camfollower 810. The cam 806 then comes into contact with a surface 816 ofthe second cam follower 812 and drives the second cam follower 812, andtherefore, the second bristle carrier 870 toward the first side 820 andaway from the second side 826 of the toothbristle carrier portion 850.As this back and forth or side-to-side motion is repeated (as the shaft808 continues to rotate), the desired sweeping motion in the directionof arrow B is provided.

[0123] A variety of different mechanisms may be used to provide thenoted motions described herein. These mechanisms may utilize either arotating or oscillating shaft or a linearly reciprocating shaft as apower source. Generally, the various repeating periodic motions areachieved by arrangements of pivoting members and linkage assemblies thathave certain predetermined regions of freedom. Accordingly, rotating orreciprocating motion from a powered shaft may be translated to a linear,primarily linear, curvilinear, or a three dimensional motion byparticular selection and configuration of components forming the drivemechanism. Furthermore, guide channels may be provided along or withinthe head or region of the toothbrush body near the bristle carrier(s)for assisting or guiding the movement of the bristle carrier(s).

[0124] The present invention has been described with reference toparticular embodiments. Modifications and alternations will occur toothers upon reading and understanding this specification. For example,while certain cams have been described as comprising bends in a shaftand other cams have been described as including appropriately shapedbeads secured to a shaft, the cams are not limited to the suggestedform. Indeed, bends may be substituted for beads and beads may besubstituted for bends and other shapes, sizes, and configurations can beimplemented. Furthermore, it is contemplated that any of the features oraspects of any of the toothbrushes A-H, may be combined with or utilizedin conjunction with any of the other features or aspects of any of thetoothbrushes A-H. It is intended that all such modifications andalternations are included insofar as they come within the scope of theappended claims or equivalents thereof.

We claim:
 1. A multi-motion toothbrush comprising: an elongated bodyhaving a first end and a second head end opposite from said first end,said body defining an interior hollow region accessible from said firstend; a first moveable bristle carrier secured to said body and disposedproximate said second end of said body; a second moveable bristlecarrier secured to said body and disposed between said first bristlecarrier and said first end of said body; an electrically powered motordisposed in said elongated body, said motor providing a rotating poweredoutput; a positionable switch for selectively activating said motor,said switch accessible along said elongated body; a drive mechanismdisposed in said elongated body and engaging said output of said motorto said first bristle carrier and said second bristle carrier; and abattery disposed in said hollow region of said elongated body forproviding electrical power to said motor upon positioning of saidswitch; wherein said first bristle carrier undergoes one dimensionalperiodic linear movement and said second bristle carrier undergoes twoor three dimensional periodic primarily linear movement upon activatingsaid motor by use of said switch.
 2. The multi-motion toothbrush ofclaim 1 wherein said first bristle carrier reciprocates along an axisthat is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. 3.The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said first bristlecarrier reciprocates along an axis (i) extending within a plane that isgenerally parallel to a plane of the toothbrush head and (ii) generallyperpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.
 4. Themulti-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said first bristle carrierreciprocates along an axis (i) extending within a plane that isgenerally parallel to a plane of the toothbrush head and (ii) at anacute angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. 5.The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said first bristlecarrier reciprocates along an axis (i) extending within a plane that isgenerally perpendicular to a plane of the toothbrush head and (ii)generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.
 6. Themulti-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said first bristle carrierreciprocates along an axis extending within a plane other than a planeof the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head.
 7. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein saidsecond bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane that is generally parallel to a plane of thetoothbrush head.
 8. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein saidsecond bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane that is generally perpendicular to a plane ofthe toothbrush head.
 9. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 1 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane other than a plane of the toothbrush head or aplane perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.
 10. Themulti-motion toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said second bristle carrierundergoes three dimensional primarily linear movement.
 11. Amulti-motion toothbrush comprising: an elongated body having a first endand a second head end opposite from said first end, said body definingan interior hollow region accessible from said first end; a firstmoveable bristle carrier secured to said body and disposed proximatesaid second end of said body; a second moveable bristle carrier securedto said body and disposed between said first bristle carrier and saidfirst end of said body; an electrically powered motor disposed in saidelongated body, said motor providing a rotating powered output; apositionable switch for selectively activating said motor, said switchaccessible along said elongated body; a drive mechanism disposed in saidelongated body and engaging said output of said motor to said first andsaid second bristle carriers; and a battery disposed in said hollowregion of said elongated body for providing electrical power to saidmotor upon positioning of said switch; wherein said first bristlecarrier undergoes two dimensional periodic primarily linear movement andsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two or three dimensional periodicprimarily linear movement upon activating said motor by use of saidswitch.
 12. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 11 wherein said firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linear movementwithin a plane that is generally parallel to a plane of the toothbrushhead.
 13. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 11 wherein said firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linear movement in aplane that is generally perpendicular to a plane of the toothbrush head.14. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 11 wherein said first bristlecarrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linear movement in a planeother than a plane of the toothbrush head or a plane that isperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.
 15. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 11 wherein said first bristle carrier undergoesthree dimensional primarily linear movement.
 16. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 11 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane that is generallyparallel to a plane of the toothbrush head.
 17. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 11 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane that is generallyperpendicular to a plane of the toothbrush head.
 18. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 11 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane other than a planeof the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head.
 19. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 11 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes three dimensional primarily linearmovement.
 20. A multi-motion toothbrush comprising: an elongated bodyhaving a first end and a second head end opposite from said first end,said body defining an interior hollow region accessible from said firstend; a first moveable bristle carrier secured to said body and disposedproximate said second end of said body; a second moveable bristlecarrier secured to said body and disposed between said first bristlecarrier and said first end of said body; an electrically powered motordisposed in said elongated body, said motor providing a rotating poweredoutput; a positionable switch for selectively activating said motor,said switch accessible along said elongated body; a drive mechanismdisposed in said elongated body and engaging said output of said motorto said first and said second bristle carriers; and a battery disposedin said hollow region of said elongated body for providing electricalpower to said motor upon positioning of said switch; wherein said firstbristle carrier undergoes three dimensional primarily linear periodicmovement and said second bristle carrier undergoes two or threedimensional periodic primarily linear movement upon activating saidmotor by use of said switch.
 21. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 20wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarilylinear movement within a plane that is generally parallel to a plane ofthe toothbrush head.
 22. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 20 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane generally perpendicular to a plane of thetoothbrush head.
 23. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 20 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane other than a plane of the toothbrush head or aplane perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.
 24. Themulti-motion toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said second bristle carrierundergoes three dimensional primarily linear movement.
 25. Amulti-motion toothbrush comprising: an elongated body having a first endand a second head end opposite from said first end, said body definingan interior hollow region accessible from said first end; a firstmoveable bristle carrier secured to said body and disposed proximatesaid second end of said body; a second moveable bristle carrier securedto said body and disposed between said first bristle carrier and saidfirst end of said body; an electrically powered motor disposed in saidelongated body, said motor providing a rotating powered output; apositionable switch for selectively activating said motor, said switchaccessible along said elongated body; a drive mechanism disposed in saidelongated body and engaging said output of said motor to said first andsaid second bristle carriers; and a battery disposed in said hollowregion of said elongated body for providing electrical power to saidmotor upon positioning of said switch; wherein said first bristlecarrier undergoes two dimensional periodic curvilinear movement and saidsecond bristle carrier undergoes two or three dimensional periodicprimarily linear movement upon activating said motor by use of saidswitch.
 26. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 25 wherein said firstbristle carrier undergoes two dimensional curvilinear movement within aplane that is generally parallel to a plane of the toothbrush head. 27.The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 25 wherein said first bristlecarrier undergoes two dimensional curvilinear movement within a planethat is generally perpendicular to a plane of the toothbrush head. 28.The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 25 wherein said first bristlecarrier undergoes two dimensional curvilinear movement within a planeother than a plane perpendicular to a plane of the toothbrush head orwithin the plane of the toothbrush head.
 29. The multi-motion toothbrushof claim 25 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane that is generallyparallel to a plane of the toothbrush head.
 30. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 25 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane generallyperpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush.
 31. The multi-motiontoothbrush of claim 25 wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes twodimensional primarily linear movement within a plane other than a planeof the toothbrush head or a plane perpendicular to the plane of thetoothbrush head.
 32. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 25 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes three dimensional primarily linearmovement.
 33. A multi-motion toothbrush comprising: an elongated bodyhaving a first end and a second head end opposite from said first end,said body defining an interior hollow region accessible from said firstend; a first moveable bristle carrier secured to said body and disposedproximate said second end of said body; a second moveable bristlecarrier secured to said body and disposed between said first bristlecarrier and said first end of said body; an electrically powered motordisposed in said elongated body, said motor providing a rotating poweredoutput; a positionable switch for selectively activating said motor,said switch accessible along said elongated body; a drive mechanismdisposed in said elongated body and engaging said output of said motorto said first and said second bristle carriers; and a battery disposedin said hollow region of said elongated body for providing electricalpower to said motor upon positioning of said switch; wherein said firstbristle carrier undergoes three dimensional periodic curvilinearmovement and said second bristle carrier undergoes two or threedimensional periodic primarily linear movement upon activating saidmotor by use of said switch.
 34. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 33wherein said second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarilylinear movement within a plane that is generally parallel to a plane ofthe toothbrush head.
 35. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 33 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane generally perpendicular to a plane of thetoothbrush head.
 36. The multi-motion toothbrush of claim 33 whereinsaid second bristle carrier undergoes two dimensional primarily linearmovement within a plane other than a plane of the toothbrush head or aplane perpendicular to the plane of the toothbrush head.
 37. Themulti-motion toothbrush of claim 33 wherein said second bristle carrierundergoes three dimensional primarily linear movement.